Delhi witnessed a massive protest on May 21, 2026, as over 4 lakh taxi and auto-rickshaw owners joined a strike organized by the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC) and the United Front of All Transport Association. The strike brought the national capital's transportation network to a standstill, with commuters facing severe inconvenience.
Reasons Behind the Strike
The primary demands of the protesting drivers include a reduction in fuel prices, which have skyrocketed in recent months, and a revision of fare structures. The associations are also seeking relief from increasing insurance premiums and stricter enforcement of traffic rules that they claim are biased against commercial vehicles.
Impact on Commuters
Thousands of daily commuters were left stranded as auto-rickshaws and taxis remained off the roads. Many office-goers and students had to resort to alternative modes of transport, including metro trains and buses, which witnessed overcrowding. The strike also affected airport and railway station pickups, causing delays for travelers.
Speaking to the media, a representative from AIMTC stated, "We have been forced to take this step due to the government's inaction on our long-pending demands. The rising cost of fuel is making it impossible for us to sustain our livelihoods."
Government Response
The Delhi government has urged the transporters to call off the strike and assured them that their demands will be considered. However, no immediate resolution was announced. The traffic police deployed additional personnel to manage the situation and ensure that emergency services were not affected.
As the strike continues, discussions between the transport associations and government officials are expected to take place in the coming days to find a middle ground.
